As September draws near, 20 collegiate design teams from around the world are finalizing their projects for the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/prefab-prispa-by-romanias-solar-decathlon-team-produces-20-more-energy-than-it-uses/">2012 Solar Decathlon in Europe</a> - and team Germany's ECOLAR house is a very <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modular_design">efficient modular dwelling</a> that can expand and shrink in accordance with its residents' needs and finances. In addition to the semi-transparent photovoltaic panels integrated into the building's facade, the flat roof's array of panels generate far more energy than the home requires.

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

ECOLAR is a modular home that can expand and shrink according to each customer's needs

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

It has a solar power plant on its roof!

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

The design is completely modular and is constructed out of highly accurate timber pieces

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

Floor to ceiling super cabinets can be customized inside

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

The SDE 2012 home has 6 modules constructed out of wood

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

The prefabricated design reduces material waste

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ECOLAR by Solar Decathletes from Germany

As September draws near, 20 collegiate design teams from around the world are finalizing their projects for the 2012 Solar Decathlon in Europe - and team Germany's ECOLAR house is a very efficient modular dwelling that can expand and shrink in accordance with its residents' needs and finances. In addition to the semi-transparent photovoltaic panels integrated into the building's facade, the flat roof's array of panels generate far more energy than the home requires.